Between April 1, 2020 and March 31 of this year, 91 deaths linked to drug overdoses of Blood Tribe members were reported. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

Blood Tribe raises alarm on overdose deaths

May 6, 2021 | 8:53 AM

STANDOFF, AB – The Blood Tribe is raising concerns about drug overdose deaths amongst its members.

Between April 1, 2020 and March 31 of this year, 91 deaths linked to drug overdoses of Blood Tribe members were reported by the Kainai Wellness Centre.

In November, it was reported that Blood Tribe Police and EMS responded to over 10 overdoses in a 24-hour period.

READ MORE: Blood Tribe Police and EMS respond to 15 overdoses in 24-hour period

A statement issued by the Blood Tribe noted that a core group of administrators heightened its actions to step in to identify the necessary efforts to stop “this illicit activity and work to save lives”.

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“Right now, there are supports for members attempting to recover from their addictions by any means of entering detox, drug treatment and transition programs specific to opioid use.”

“In addition to these resources, there are continued efforts in the areas of children services, mental health, law enforcement and housing which have identified key areas that are impacted by drug activity.”

The administrative group has identified a key task force, which is moving to focus on immediate concerns on addressing drug trafficking, dealing, recovery supports and help for families.

Task force members include but are not limited to: Blood Tribe Police Service, Emergency Management Services, Kainai Wellness Centre, Harm Reduction, Foot Patrol, Kainaiwa Children Services, Blood Tribe Housing and Dr. Esther Tail Feathers.

MOVING FORWARD & NEXT STEPS

The Blood Tribe says the task force members will implement “immediate actions” to be measured in the first 30-60-90 days. Frontline workers, addictions specialists, and health professionals identified 27 actions that will begin immediately.

The core group of administrators and the task force are working in tandem to access resources to meet their goals within the 30-60-90 day timeframes.

“All coordinated efforts will be monitored and reported to Chief and Council at every regular meeting,” read the statement from the Blood Tribe.

“Along with the coordinated effort, we also encourage the involvement and cooperation of our community members to stop this dangerous problem that is stealing childhoods, family members, and threatening our way of life.”

The Blood Tribe says the overdose situation is larger than just one department, one person or leadership, and tackling the issue requires the commitment of all community members.